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Reggae classic ‘One Love’ re-issued to help children upended by COVID crisis

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The iconic Bob Marley song One Love is to be re-released with the blessing of the musician’s family to support children whose lives have been upended by COVID-19, the UN said on Thursday.

The fundraising initiative comes as the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned that an additional 6,000 children could die every day from preventable causes in the next six months.

Almost all of them live in developing countries, where the coronavirus pandemic has placed additional strain on already fragile health systems and basic services.

Call for unity, then and now

Issued in 1977 by Bob Marley and the Wailers, with a call for unity and to tackle the suffering of children, a new version of the much-loved reggae anthem will go on sale on Friday 17 July.

It features members of the Marley family, world-renowned musicians, artists from conflict zones and children from vulnerable communities.

“Over 40 years ago, my father wrote One Love about unity, peace and universal love during a time when there was much trouble in the world”, said Cedella Marley. “Even in a time when we aren’t able to ‘get together’, his message remains true today: we can get through this global crisis if we come together through one love and one heart.”

The project also has the support of jewellery brand Pandora, which has pledged to match every dollar raised to purchase One Love, up to the value of $1 million.

A bid for greater equality

All proceeds will support Reimagine, UNICEF’s global campaign to prevent the COVID-19 emergency from becoming a lasting crisis for children.

“One Love speaks directly to one key truth about this pandemic: our best hope to defeat COVID-19 and to reimagine a more equal, less discriminatory world for children is through global solidarity and co-operation”, said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. “We are delighted that the Marley family along with Pandora have lent their generous support, creativity and love to help the most vulnerable children.”

In addition to the immediate health impact of COVID-19 on children and their families, UNICEF has warned that youngsters have been affected indirectly too, through school closures, food shortages, limited access to basic healthcare and disruptions to medical supply chains.

TikTok chiming in

The agency intends to use the money raised from One Love to respond to immediate needs, which include soap, facemasks, gloves, hygiene kits, protective equipment and lifesaving information for children and families.

Support for youngsters’ education, protection and healthcare systems will also be possible, UNICEF said in a statement, which noted that internet platform TikTok, will promote the song launch with a special event and public challenge for fans who want to get involved.

“We have a unique opportunity to chart a brighter future for the children and young people mostly likely to suffer its long-term consequences”, said Ms. Fore. “From ending violence, injustice and discrimination, to building fairer and more just societies, young people have made their message loud and clear. It is time for the rest of the world to hear it.”

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Entertainment

Sean Dampte causes stir after calling on Nigerian Radios, TVs to drop South African content, drags lazy youths

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Sean Dampte

Afrobeats singer Sean Dampte has stirred fresh conversations online after calling on Nigerian media platforms to temporarily suspend the promotion of South African entertainment content, while also delivering a blunt message to young Nigerians about the importance of hard work.

The singer made the remarks during a recent radio interview, where he discussed the need for Nigeria to place greater value on its entertainment industry and cultural influence across Africa.

Speaking passionately, Sean Dampte argued that Nigerian radio stations, television networks, DJs, presenters and other media stakeholders should prioritise local content over South African productions, insisting that Nigeria has contributed immensely to the growth of African entertainment and deserves greater respect in return.

According to the “Ajinomoto” crooner, Nigerian media should leverage its influence to protect the country’s creative industry and ensure Nigerian artistes receive the recognition and support they deserve.

While he did not suggest that the suspension should be permanent, his comments have generated mixed reactions among fans and industry observers. Some have applauded his stance, describing it as a bold call to protect Nigerian interests and promote homegrown talent. Others, however, argue that entertainment should remain a bridge for cultural exchange rather than become entangled in political or diplomatic disagreements.

Beyond the conversation on media and cultural identity, Sean Dampte also addressed Nigerian youths, stressing the importance of diligence and personal responsibility in the face of the country’s economic realities.

Delivering what has since become one of the interview’s most talked-about moments, the singer declared:

“If you no hustle, na Sapa be the penalty.”

The statement quickly resonated across social media, with many users adopting it as a catchy slogan that reflects the everyday struggles faced by many young Nigerians.

Sean Dampte’s comments have continued to spark debate over whether Nigerian media should adopt stronger measures to protect local content or maintain an open approach that promotes entertainment across the African continent.

As discussions continue online, his remarks have once again placed the intersection of music, culture and national identity at the centre of public conversation, proving that the singer is unafraid to voice opinions capable of igniting widespread debate.

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Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear — Sean Dampte

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Nigerian singer and humanitarian Sean Dampte has expressed deep concern over reports of mass abductions and growing insecurity across communities in South-West Nigeria, calling for urgent action to protect lives and restore public confidence.

In a heartfelt statement, Dampte lamented the fear and uncertainty facing families, students, and educators in affected communities. He stressed that no child should leave home for school only to become the subject of desperate prayers before returning safely, and that no teacher should have to work under the constant threat of abduction.

Describing the situation as a national concern that transcends politics, ethnicity, religion, and social media debates, the entertainer emphasised that real lives and families are being affected by the crisis.

“My heart is heavy over the reports of mass abductions and the fear spreading across communities in South-West Nigeria,” he said, adding that the pain experienced by victims and their loved ones should never be ignored or normalised.

Sean Dampte expressed solidarity with affected families and communities living in fear, while also joining other Nigerians in demanding immediate and decisive action from authorities. He urged relevant security agencies and government institutions to strengthen the protection of schools, secure vulnerable communities, and ensure the safe return of all abducted persons.

The singer concluded by reiterating his vision for a safer nation, stating that “Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear.”

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Adekunle Gold, Simi welcome twins

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Popular Nigerian singer, Adekunle Kosoko, better known as Adekunle Gold, and his wife, Simisola Kosoko, also known as Simi, have welcomed a set of twin babies.

The singer announced the good news via his Snapchat story on Wednesday.

“Asked God for another child and He blessed me double,” Simi wrote.

Although the gender of the babies has not been disclosed, the announcement has since attracted congratulatory messages from fans, colleagues and well-wishers across the entertainment industry.

The development comes months after Simi had hinted at her pregnancy. In December, she shared a video on Instagram, captioned, “From my baby, for my babies,” with the clip showing her baby bump.

The arrival of the twins also comes weeks after Simi featured in a snippet from Adekunle Gold’s recently released music video titled My Love Is the Same.

Adekunle Gold and Simi got married in 2019 after years of friendship and musical collaboration. Both artistes were formerly signed to X3M Music early in their careers and have since remained one of Nigeria’s most celebrated celebrity couples.

The couple welcomed their first child, Adejare Kosoko, fondly called Deja, in May 2020.

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